By Moses Joshua 
Detroit’s coaching tree continues to grow as another key assistant lands on the NFL’s radar
The Detroit Lions’ rise over the past few seasons hasn’t just reshaped expectations on the field—it’s also elevated the profile of the team’s coaching staff. The latest example arrived Friday, when Lions safeties coach Jim O’Neil emerged as one of the candidates interviewed for the New York Jets’ vacant defensive coordinator position.
With former Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn now leading the Jets, the connection feels more than coincidental. It’s another sign that Detroit’s defensive development is being closely watched across the league.
Jim O’Neil’s Lions Impact Didn’t Go Unnoticed
O’Neil has only been in Detroit since 2024, but his influence has been immediate and tangible. Tasked with overseeing the Lions’ safeties, he helped guide the continued emergence of Brian Branch into a Pro Bowl-caliber defender while also maximizing the All-Pro production of Kerby Joseph.
That level of consistency and growth within one position group often speaks louder than raw statistics. For teams searching for defensive leadership, it signals a coach who can teach, adapt, and elevate talent—qualities the Jets are clearly prioritizing after parting ways with Steve Wilks during the 2025 season.
O’Neil’s prior overlap with Glenn during their time together in Detroit only adds to the intrigue. Familiarity with scheme, terminology, and philosophy can be a powerful factor when assembling a new defensive staff.
A Proven Coordinator With a Long Résumé
While O’Neil may be newer to the Lions, he’s far from inexperienced. His resume includes multiple stops as a defensive coordinator at both the professional and collegiate levels, including stints with the Cleveland Browns, San Francisco 49ers, and Northwestern.
That background could appeal to a Jets organization seeking stability and structure after a turbulent defensive season. O’Neil brings a blend of NFL experience and teaching acumen—an attractive combination for a team trying to reset its defensive identity.
The Jets’ interview list underscores how competitive the search has become, with candidates ranging from rising assistants to seasoned defensive minds. O’Neil’s inclusion alone suggests he’s firmly in the mix, not just a courtesy interview.
Lions’ Coaching Tree Keeps Expanding
O’Neil’s interview is part of a broader trend: Detroit assistants are increasingly drawing attention around the league. Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard has already been linked to head coaching interest, while other Lions staff members have fielded coordinator interviews elsewhere.
It’s a testament to how respected the Lions’ internal development process has become. Success breeds opportunity, and Detroit’s staff is now experiencing the same churn typically associated with winning organizations.
For Lions fans, it’s a double-edged sword—validation of the team’s progress, but also a reminder that sustained success often comes with difficult personnel decisions off the field.
Whether or not Jim O’Neil ultimately joins Aaron Glenn in New York, his interview alone reinforces a growing truth: the rest of the NFL is paying very close attention to what’s being built in Detroit.